You Can Turn Your Old Android Phone Into A Ham Radio - Here's How

Smartphones have essentially all but replaced other methods of communication, but there are times when having access to a ham radio could be a lifesaver -- especially during disasters. Well, there is a way to take an Android phone -- perhaps an old one that you have tossed into a drawer -- and transform it into a fully-functioning ham radio.

Also: How ham radio endures - and remains a disaster lifeline - in the iPhone era

However, if you think it's as easy as downloading an app, I'm sorry to tell you that it's a bit more involved. The good news is that you can build it for about $35.

The project, called kv4p HT, is a homebrew VHF radio that is capable of both voice and text communication. 

Note that to use this legally in the US you will need a level 1 Technician class license, details of which you can find here. 

To add ham radio capability to your Android smartphone, you will need a few bits. 

• DRA818V VHF ham radio module (also available from Amazon)
• ESP-WROOM-32 dev board Type-C USB 
• SMA antenna 
• Short USB-C cable 
• 90-degree SMA antenna connector
• Sticky pads

You will also need a custom printed circuit board, and you will need to be able to solder. If you need a case for the radio, there are 3D print files available.  

Also: How to solder: Tools, tips, and tricks to get you started the easy way

Oh, and you'll need an Android smartphone with a USB-C port.

The site has comprehensive instructions on building the radio and flashing the firmware, along with a Discord channel, so someone is there to help you along the way. 

Also: NASA has a problem, and it's offering up to $3 million if you have a solution

The phone's battery powers the ham radio, and the power draw is quite low, but the radio can be physically disconnected by removing the cable. 

For a deeper dive on how ham radio is still used today, check out ZDNET's Steven J. Vaughan-Nichols' article: How ham radio endures - and remains a disaster lifeline - in the iPhone era.